Violent Clash Erupts at NUJ Secretariat in Abuja as Thugs Disrupt BCAN Inauguration
Chaos erupted at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council Secretariat in Utako, Abuja, on Thursday when a group of armed thugs disrupted the inauguration of the Bus Conductors Association of Nigeria (BCAN), a National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) affiliate.
The attackers, allegedly loyal to Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, stormed the venue brandishing dangerous weapons, including machetes, knives, bottles, and sticks.
Details of the Incident
The event, attended by government officials and dignitaries, turned violent shortly after the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, who was the special guest of honour, left the venue.
- The attackers, reportedly led by one Segun Aluwaye, claimed to be acting as representatives of Berger Park. They forced their way into the premises, chasing participants out of the hall and vandalizing property, including cameras, chairs, tables, and fans.
- Eyewitnesses reported that the thugs wore caps bearing MC Oluomo’s portrait, further linking them to the embattled transport leader.
Casualties and Damages
- Many attendees, including government officials and security personnel, were injured in the mayhem.
- Security agents, including the police, DSS, and NSCDC, were not spared in the attack, with some chased into nearby offices for safety.
BCAN Chairman Reacts
Speaking after the incident, BCAN Chairman Comrade Prince Israel Ade Adeshola condemned the attack, describing it as “unfortunate.”
“We are here to inaugurate our association, aimed at eradicating ‘One Chance’ incidents in Abuja and keeping accurate data of conductors. Unfortunately, miscreants stormed the event with dangerous weapons, injuring our members and destroying property,” Adeshola stated.
Call for Action
Adeshola urged President Bola Tinubu and security agencies to intervene, calling for MC Oluomo and his alleged supporters to be brought to order.
Police Response
At the time of reporting, no arrests had been confirmed, but police vehicles were stationed outside the NUJ Secretariat to prevent further escalation.
Background and Implications
The inauguration was intended to address safety concerns in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), particularly tackling the menace of “One Chance” operations. The violent disruption highlights the ongoing tensions within Nigeria’s transport unions and raises concerns about the security of civic spaces.
Further investigations are expected as BCAN vows to pursue justice for the attack.